Recent comments from Donald Trump have thrust a long-debunked medical theory back into the spotlight, sparking concern and confusion among the public. The theory, championed by US presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr, suggests a link between using common painkiller Tylenol (paracetamol) during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism in children.
The Origin of the Controversy
The claim stems from a 2021 book by Mr Kennedy, which posits that acetaminophen – the active ingredient in paracetamol – is a primary contributor to rising autism rates. This theory gained further traction when Mr Trump, during a campaign event, appeared to endorse the idea, stating he believed Mr Kennedy was "right about a lot of things" including the Tylenol-autism link.
Medical Experts Issue Swift Rebuttal
Leading health organisations and independent scientists have been quick to condemn these assertions as dangerous misinformation. A spokesperson for the UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) stated, "There is no current evidence of a causal link between paracetamol use in pregnancy and autism in the child. The benefits of paracetamol for pain relief outweigh any potential risks when used as directed."
This position is firmly supported by the NHS, which continues to recommend paracetamol as the first-choice painkiller for pregnant women. Experts warn that discouraging its use could lead pregnant individuals to turn to more harmful alternatives like ibuprofen, which carries known risks for fetal development.
Scrutinising the Evidence
While some observational studies have noted a correlation, scientists emphasise that correlation does not equal causation. Dr James Cusack, CEO of the UK autism research charity Autistica, explained, "The studies cited are often misinterpreted. They cannot prove that paracetamol causes autism. It is far more likely that the underlying reason a pregnant person needs pain relief is the factor influencing neurodevelopment, not the medication itself."
The scientific consensus remains clear: the current body of evidence is insufficient to support any causal claim. Major health bodies, including the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the UK's Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, maintain that paracetamol is safe for use during pregnancy when necessary.
A Warning Against Misinformation
Public health officials have expressed concern that such high-profile endorsements of unproven theories can cause unnecessary alarm and lead to poor health decisions. The spread of this particular claim is seen as part of a wider trend of medical misinformation, often propagated by anti-vaccine campaigners.
The message from the medical community is unequivocal: pregnant women should not be afraid to use paracetamol for pain or fever under medical guidance. As always, it is recommended to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time and to consult a GP or midwife with any concerns.
